The sight of ten kilograms of melted Belgian chocolate oozing over a three-tiered fountain may be enough to tempt even the most strong-willed to break their summer diet.

In fact, the Original Chocolate Fountain has been so popular with party-goers in the South-east, that an enterprising business woman is bringing the concept to the Midlands.

Donna Naylor from Stratford-upon-Avon, who has bought the Original Chocolate Fountain franchise for the region, said: "We're very excited with the opportunity that the Midlands presents.

"The demand for chocolate fountains at corporate events, weddings and many other family or social occasions has really taken off.

"People who have used us before, do so again and those who have seen a chocolate fountain in operation for the first time, generally look through their own social or business calendar to see when they can hire one!"

The chocolate fountain works by warming the Belgian chocolate in the base which then works its way up the fountain via an Archimedes Screw.

Upon reaching the top, the chocolate then cascades down into the base.

The fountain also includes an illuminated Perspex base surrounded by glass dishes of foods which can be dipped into the fountain.

The first Original Chocolate Fountain, based in New Covent Garden Market, has been a hit since it was launched in

2002. It has supported movie premiere parties and even had a part in the new Charlie and the Chocolate Factory film.

Ms Naylor who has a background in business development and sales, said she had made the decision to launch the fountain in the Midlands, after seeing it operate at a franchise exhibition.

She said: "I just kept coming back to the fountain - people are mesmerised by it!"